Nothing beats good food and breathtaking views, so why not combine the two and head out for a picnic. We've taken the hard part out of your picnic organisation and put together a list of seven of the best spots you can set yourself up at around Auckland.
Our great city is dotted with gorgeous picnic spots for you and your boo (or dog), a bunch of mates or the fam bam. We’ve located the best places to have your next picnic—now all you have to do is rally your picnic companions, pack a feast and enjoy.
Takapuna Beach
Takapuna
The fact that this North Shore beach hums with people every day of the year is a tell-tale sign that it’s downright awesome. While there are a handful of great cafes in Takapuna, grab some goodies from your local deli/bakery/grandmother and settle down on the beachfront. It’s the perfect place for some dog watching or even a dip… waiting an hour for that picnic fare to settle, of course.
Parnell Rose Gardens
Parnell
At this picnic spot, you can literally rock up and smell the roses. Heck, you can even eat your sammies amongst them. The roses are in full bloom from October through until summer, but it is a perfect spot to settle down all year round.
Mission Bay
Tamaki Drive
It’s no secret that Mission Bay is an Auckland hotspot. The place buzzes with people splashing in the sea, going for strolls or hitting up one of the many cafes. However, there’s no better way to experience Mission Bay than with a picnic. There’s plenty of room on the beach and grass area, or if you’re looking for an epic elevated spot, head up to Bastian Point, where you’ll be treated to sprawling views of the Waitemata Harbour.
Cheltenham Beach
Devonport
This Devonport gem was once one of Auckland’s best-kept secrets. Now that the cat’s out of the bag, we might as well let you in on why it’s so special. Cheltenham Beach is a long stretch of sandy bliss nestled behind North Head and is one of the more secluded picnic beach spots in Auckland. It’s a tidal beach, so keep that in mind when planning your picnic, but there's plenty of room to sit down and enjoy the views. Pick up some fish ‘n’ chips, and see go see what all the fuss is about.
Piha
Waitakare Ranges
From sheltered grassy areas to huge tables and heaps of room on the beach, a picnic at Piha should be on your bucket list. Spread out your picnic rug and tuck into your delicious picnic. If you’re feeling game, Mercer Bay Loop is an easy walk with several picture-perfect picnic spots along the track. As it is located near some of the protected Kauri-dieback areas, make sure to check here if the track is open before you leave.
Cornwall Park
Epsom
How lucky are we to have this massive green oasis in our city?! Cornwall Park has everything you could ever want for a cruisy picnic. The place is gigantic so you don’t have to worry about people accidentally sitting on your D.I.Y charcuterie board. Pack the sausies for this picnic—there are barbecues throughout the park. And cows, but they’re just for looking at.
Albert Park
Auckland CBD
Spending the day in the city and looking for some green space? Albert Park is a welcome escape from lecture halls and libraries for Auckland students, and this inner-city park is a favourite for picnics and lunchtime breaks to all who visit or work in the CBD. Scarecrow is close by and has your picnic hamper sorted with fresh salads, bread, cheese, pastries and sweet treats.
If you like your picnics sneaky, check out these hidden picnic spots.
Image credit: Jonathan Borba, Mission Bay by Thomas Necklen, Cornwall Park by Habib Zeiniadeh,